The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Latgale
4.7
(13)
106
hikers
16
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Latgale traverse a landscape characterized by numerous lakes, extensive forests, and gentle hills. The region, often called the "Land of Blue Lakes," features a diverse network of waterways and wetlands, including the Daugava River's distinctive meanders. Latgale's terrain generally offers accessible paths with modest elevation changes, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. This natural setting provides a tranquil environment for exploring the region's natural attractions.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Latgale
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Apžvalgos ratas loop from Zarasai, a 4.6 miles (7.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 56 minutes to complete. This easy route features gentle elevation changes suitable for families.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Ež. Zarasas loop from Zarasai, an easy 2.6 miles (4.2 km) path. This trail offers scenic views around Lake Zarasas with minimal ascent.
- Local hikers also love the Čertoka Lake Viewing Platform loop from dabas liegums „Čertoka ezers (Valnezers)”, a 1.5 miles (2.4 km) trail leading through natural surroundings to a viewing platform, often completed in about 38 minutes.
- Hiking in Latgale is defined by its abundant lakes, vast forests, and the meandering Daugava River. The network offers options for various ability levels, with a strong focus on family friendly routes.
- The routes in Latgale are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 100 hikers have used komoot to explore Latgale's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
5.0
(2)
28
hikers
6.82km
01:47
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
4.24km
01:05
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
8
hikers
24.3km
06:25
220m
210m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
6
hikers
5.33km
01:22
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A lake shimmering in many colors in the middle of the forest. A new boardwalk allows you to walk around the lake.
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The fortress as a whole is very worth seeing, even if it would deserve better use to prevent it from being left to decay.
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Beautiful area and a lot of untouched nature.
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Very rewarding hike along the river.
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Great view of the forest and river.
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Today history in the fortress territory is witnessed by historical large-calibre cannons. In these days nine old cannons can be found here: five of them are from cast-iron, while four – made from steel. They were manufactured in the second half of the 19th century in an ordnance plant in Perm and in Obukhov steel casting plant (Russia). All cannons are made with threading in a gun tube, which increased the range of a missile and improved accuracy and close pattern of shooting. Two of the cannons are placed at the main entrance of the Commandant’s house facing the fortress garden. In the very middle of the garden three cannons enrich the fountain. The steel mortar gun (bore diameter 205 mm, model of 1872) of the fortress is placed on the “Wallgang” (a protected place on the upper part of a rampart) of the main rampart curtain between the Nicholas gate and the 7th bastion – in the way how cannons were placed when the fortress switched to defence emergency. One more steel cannon with the bore diameter of 107 mm (model of 1887) on the original Venglovski gun-mount is placed at the intersection of the streets Imperatora and Konstantīna. Two steel artillery tubes were installed at Hekeļa Street 3, yet now they are moved to a warehouse belonging to the building proprietor. https://rm.coe.int/16806f5dfd
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In the 1820s-1850s four spacious two-storey stone barracks to house soldiers were built not far from the fortress gates. Three of the buildings have also a semibasement floor that was used for kitchen, lavatory and washing rooms. Toilet blocks, utility rooms and wells were located in barrack courtyards. In the 1920s-1940s soldiers of Zemgale division regiments were lodged in these buildings. The premises were considerably rebuilt during the Soviet times to meet the needs of the aviation school cadets. A third floor was built on the Nicholas barrack (Nikolaja Street 2), while the new Nicholas barrack (Mihaila Street 11) was turned into a school canteen. Today these spacious buildings are not used. https://rm.coe.int/16806f5dfd
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Mark Rothko Art Centre is located in the building of the artillery arsenal (1830-1833). It is a place where the past has regained its second wind and is in step with the time, thus creating a unique place for varied creative manifestations. Some day the place was used to keep cannons, ammunition wagons and prodgy, swords and rifles, regimental colours and drums. The building is architectural monument of State significance. In the Art Centre one can see the original pieces of the worldknown artist Mark Rothko, born in Daugavpils, as well as to visit the exposition devoted to this artist. Mark Rothko (b. Marcus Rothkowitz) was born September 25, 1903. In 1913 his family emigrated to the United States of America. He is one of the most outstanding and remarkable artists of the second half of the 20th century, founder of the abstract expressionism movement. In the art centre it is also possible to visit changing personal and group exhibitions of well-known Latgalian, Latvian and foreign artists. The total surface of the exhibition halls is 2000 m2. One may visit expositions and exhibitions independently or accompanied by a guide. The tour around all art centre exhibitions takes 1 hour and 30 minutes, the tour of the A sector (M. Rothko biography and creative works) takes 45 minutes. The art centre also offers ordering tours around the fortress. Tours can be ordered by phone: +371 654 30279, +371 65430273, +371 20364226. Opening hours of Mark Rothko Art Centre: Monday – closed; Tuesday and Sunday – from 11:00 to 17:00; Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday – from 11:00 to 19:00. Mihaila Street 3. +371 654 30 253 www.rotkocentrs.lv, rotkocentrs@ daugavpils.lv
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Latgale?
Latgale offers a wonderful selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features 17 routes, with 12 of them specifically categorized as easy, making them perfect for families with children. These trails allow you to explore the region's beautiful lakes, forests, and unique natural landscapes.
What makes Latgale a great destination for family hikes?
Latgale, known as the 'Land of Blue Lakes,' provides a tranquil and diverse natural environment ideal for families. Its numerous lakes, vast forests, and unique bog ecosystems offer varied scenery. The trails are generally uncrowded, allowing for a peaceful experience, and many routes are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages.
What is the best time of year for family hiking in Latgale?
The warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to October), are generally the most pleasant for family hiking in Latgale. During autumn, the Daugava River meanders in Daugavas Loki Nature Park offer particularly stunning views with vibrant foliage. Summer provides comfortable temperatures for exploring the lakes and forests.
Are there any circular family-friendly hiking routes in Latgale?
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in Latgale are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Čertoka Lake Viewing Platform loop is an easy, accessible path that takes you around the mystical Lake Čertoks. Another option is the Ež. Zarasas loop from Zarasai, which is also an easy circular route.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family-friendly trails in Latgale?
Family-friendly trails in Latgale typically feature a mix of terrain. You'll often find well-maintained gravel roads, as well as rural, forest, and meadow paths. Some unique trails, like the Teirumnīki Bog Trail, offer boardwalks through distinctive bog ecosystems. Most easy routes have minimal elevation gain, making them suitable for children.
What natural attractions can families discover on hikes in Latgale?
Latgale is rich in natural beauty. Families can explore the region's approximately 1,200 lakes, including the mystical Lake Čertoks, known for its transparent water, which you can view from the Čertoka Lake Viewing Platform loop. The Daugava River meanders in Daugavas Loki Nature Park offer breathtaking river views, and the Teirumnīki Bog Trail provides a unique experience of Latvia's characteristic wetlands.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks suitable for families to visit along the trails?
Absolutely! Latgale offers several historical sites that can be interesting for families. You can visit the Dinaburg Castle Ruins and Castle Model, which provides a glimpse into medieval history. The Mikhail Gate – Daugavpils Fortress Cannons loop takes you through parts of the historic Daugavpils Fortress, a significant landmark in the region.
Can we find trails with scenic viewpoints in Latgale?
Yes, Latgale boasts several scenic viewpoints. The Daugavas Loki Nature Park features observation platforms like the Lazdukalns tower, offering panoramic vistas of the Daugava River's sweeping curves. Additionally, trails in Rāzna National Park lead to summits like Lielais Liepu Kalns and Mākoņkalns, providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
Are the family-friendly hiking trails in Latgale suitable for dogs?
Many of Latgale's natural trails are suitable for dogs, especially given the region's focus on untouched wilderness and uncrowded paths. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas or near wildlife, and to check specific park regulations before your visit.
Are there any buggy-friendly or accessible trails for families with very young children?
While specific buggy-friendly designations can vary, many of the easy, low-elevation trails in Latgale, particularly those on wider gravel or well-maintained forest paths, can be suitable for buggies. The Čertoka Lake Viewing Platform loop is noted as an accessible path for all skill levels, making it a good option for families with young children in buggies.
How can we reach the family-friendly hiking trails in Latgale?
Most trailheads in Latgale are accessible by car, with parking often available nearby, especially for popular routes. While public transport options exist for larger towns, reaching more remote trailheads might require a car. It's advisable to plan your route in advance and check specific access details for your chosen trail.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Latgale?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Latgale, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's serene and untouched natural beauty, the abundance of picturesque lakes, and the peaceful, uncrowded trails that allow for a true immersion in nature. The diverse landscapes, from forests to bogs and river meanders, are also frequently highlighted.
Most popular attractions in Latgale
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